Navajo Sterling Silver and Green Turquoise Ring [SOLD]

Native-made Southwestern jewelry was easy to carry back home and most durable of souvenirs available to tourists and travelers visiting the American Southwest at the beginning of the twentieth century. Jewelry making became a major source of income for many tribes during that time. Eventually, each tribe developed styles and materials unique to its tribe.

Navajo smiths were known for their finely crafted silver work that highlighted the beauty of a singular stone. This ring is an excellent example of mid-century Navajo craftsmanship. A beautiful, green turquoise stone is set in a silver bezel. The bezel is then surrounded with a twisted wire frame. The framed green turquoise stone sits on three small silver raindrops which spread out to a three-pronged hand-made shank.  The ring has a lovely patina, which can only be achieved by age.

Condition:  the stone and silver are still in excellent condition

Recommended Reading: The Beauty of Navajo Jewelry by Theda Bassman

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Colorado